HONOLULU — After the death Saturday morning of a female high school student known to both Kamehameha and Punahou water polo teams, the HHSAA water polo championship between the two schools was postponed until Monday.

The person was a Moanalua High senior who competed for Kamehameha Swim Club. She was at a club meet at Kapolei Aquatics Center when she became unresponsive and could not be revived, according to coaches of both teams. Her brother attends Kamehameha.

“It’s just tough emotionally for both Kamehameha players and our players,” Punahou coach Ken Smith said. “We all had connections from Kamehameha Swimming (Club), because some of our girls swim for them.

“I think in the end everyone just felt it was best to honor the girl who passed away and get everything going on Monday.”

It will be held at 6 p.m. at Kamehameha.

Both teams were gathered at Kamehameha’s aquatics complex when the news of the swimmer’s passing spread prior to the would-be 6 p.m. start time. Kamehameha players were visibly emotional as they comforted each other poolside.

“They’re as OK as they can be. It’s a difficult situation,” Kamehameha coach Anthony Cabrera said. “A number of the girls grew up with her. It’s a tough situation for them. They’re dealing with it together as a team.”

The Warriors planned to get in a light workout session in their pool, Cabrera said. Smith said his team would taper off its workload.

Brian McInnis covers the state's sports scene for Spectrum News Hawaii. He can be reached at brian.mcinnis@charter.com.